Tia And Tamera’s Breastfeeding Stories

Moms and actresses Tia Mowry-Hardrict and Tamera Mowry-Housely explain why breastfeeding was so important to them, how they got through the tough parts — and the weird and hilarious moments they had along the way.

Moms and actresses Tia Mowry-Hardrict and Tamera Mowry-Housely explain why breastfeeding was so important to them, how they got through the tough parts — and the weird and hilarious moments they had along the way.

The Bump: When did you decide to breastfeed?

Tia: I always knew I wanted to breastfeed.

Tamera: The health benefits were the main reason I wanted to do it. I wanted to make sure my son got a fair start. I can’t control what’s in formula but I can control what goes into my body. I have never been so health conscious in my life! It all started with nursing and making sure what I was putting into my body wouldn’t seep into my milk. Also, I wanted that bond with my son.

TB: Did you have any trouble breastfeeding?

Tamera: At first it wasn’t easy. My son lost about half of his weight in the hospital. We were just learning the latch-on process, and unfortunately he didn’t latch properly in beginning. I got such sore nipples that my toes would curl from the pain. But I still didn’t supplement! I spoke to my doula and had an amazing lactation nurse. She was phenomenal. She came over and helped us figure out the latch.

Tia: I was working a lot, and I became stressed out, so I would run out of milk. I looked for options that would help me increase my milk supply. Unfortunately, the only thing out there was a nasty tea. But, that is how Milky! was born.

TB:Tell us more about Milky!, the lactation supplement you two helped create.

Tia: My sister and I realized that there wasn't an aid that was natural, organic and tasted good so we decided to create one.

Tamera: Some of the teas out there are terrible. And if it’s summer, you don’t want hot tea, and most people don’t have time to brew up tea all the time. This is a 2.5-ounce drink that that you can take like a shot twice a day. Let me tell you that it works! There were two instances where my supply decreased — I got sick and hurt my neck. I was pumping breast milk and went from 0 ounces to 5 ounces in four days. Sometimes you need a little help, and Milky! was perfect.

TB: Tamera, since Tia had gone through pregnancy and delivery before you, did you ask her for advice on breastfeeding?

Tamera: Of course! I wanted to know what was normal and what wasn’t. I wanted to know when the pain would go away. I was constantly questioning myself, asking, “Will this get better?” It did. That’s what she helped me with.

TB: What breastfeeding advice would you like to give other new moms?

Tia: Relax, be patient and enjoy the moment. Don't think about what's going on around you. Be present.

Tamera: I would put on music or watch my favorite show. I realized that when I relaxed, my son Aden relaxed. Even though it’s organic and natural, it’s not easy for everyone. A lot of women don’t get it right away. It’s okay. Stick it out. If you can get past the first four weeks, it’s going to get better — I promise.

TB:What was the weirdest place you ever breastfed or pumped?

Tia: On a plane during take-off. I'm afraid to fly, and breastfeeding actually calmed me.

TB: Have you had any funny breastfeeding moments?

Tamera: Well, I don’t know how funny this is. At the beginning, I was adamant about getting breastfeeding down, and my breasts were so sore. I found that if didn’t wear a bra and put a little bit of nipple cream or breast milk on, that relieved it. I walked around naked all the time! My poor husband — I walked around the house like a hot mess with no shirt and would be like, “Hey, babe what’s for dinner?”